Pepperpot epaper 02 25 2018

See inside: ► Page V

Rose Hall Town comes alive with Mashramani children’s parade

Mashramani

2018

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This reveller enjoyed herself to the fullest while traversing the new route in a costume from the Ministry of Indigenous Affairs (Photo by Samuel Maughn)

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Linden dominates Mash Competitions

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Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

Shasha Designs participates in Commonwealth Fashion Exchange programme

Work showcased at the Buckingham Palace for London Fashion Week

GUYANESE designer, Keisha Edwards of Shasha Designs, on February 19 represented Guyana at the first-ever Commonwealth Fashion Exchange programme, which saw designers and artisans from 52 Commonwealth countries producing a fashion ‘look’ using principles of sustainable excellence. The design was unveiled at a special reception at Buckingham Palace for London Fashion Week.

In an interview with The Pepperpot Magazine Keisha said that she feels excited, honoured and humbled to have been selected to participate in the project and was elated to have represented Guyana at this event. “The event at Buckingham Palace was emotional to experience,” she said. “The Palace itself is gorgeous- I had to take a moment to take in the décorand the designs from the Commonwealth, showcased at the event were each unique and special.”

The Guyanese designer was also in the presence of the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton; Editor in Chief of Vogue, Anna Wintour; and British model, Naomi Campbell, who also attended the event. “I had a very long conversation with Princess Beatrice of York, who was intrigued by how the gown I designed merged Antiguan and Guyanese aesthetics,” Keisha said. “We spoke at length about the textile aspect of the design and about the weaving which was used at the bodice of the garment and at the bottom of the dress.”

Speaking on the concept behind the look, Keisha said that she chose to do weaving because unlike Antigua and Barbuda, Guyana does not have a national fabric or a traditional garment, and what is known about Guyana’s indigenous peoples is that the country has nine tribes which use a particular style of weaving when creating craft. “I wanted my design to incorporate that style. Instead of using a traditional basket weave, I did a plain weave for the dress. It was an opportunity to highlight this as part of our heritage as Guyanese. The natural dyeing was something I had never done before, but since the exchange was about sustainability, I wanted to use an environmentally friendly method by using onion skins and beet roots as natural dyes. Designer Sydney Francois from Guyana assisted me with this aspect of the design process.

He learned this dyeing technique from Selana Gental, an Arawak,” Keisha said.

ABOUT THE LOOK: Keisha, who is currently enrolled at the Caribbean Acade-

my of Fashion and Design, pursuing her Bachelor's Degree in Fashion Design, said that the look she presented was inspired

by Antigua and Barbuda’s National Costume and the Indigenous peoples of Guyana and Antigua and Barbuda, and fused elements of the Arawak tradition with Antigua’s National wear. The neck of the dress is made with burlap and is covered with seeds from the ‘shac shac’ (flamboyant) tree. It is in the shape of a stick figure which represents one of the creatures that the Arawak shaman transforms into. The bodice is made with hand dyed Madras, which is Antigua and Barbuda’s national fabric for their national costume. The centre of the bodice is made with palm leaves and fibres woven into a plain weave. ‘Shac Shac’ seeds, ‘jumbie’ seeds and buck beads create a triangular form on the front bodice of the design. The architecture of the Arawak Ajoupa (home) specifically the

roof, inspired the full skirt of the dress, which is made with brown cotton and dyed burlap. The centre of the skirt is tiedyed using onion skin and beetroot. Buck beads were sewn on the red panels of the skirt. Tibiseri straw (a fibre extracted from a Mauritia flexuosa found in Guyana) was woven with the palm leaves from Antigua (date palm) to create the plain weave used along the bodice of the dress as well as the front panel of the skirt.

Following the event at the Buckingham Palace, the design then moves to a public exhibition at Australia House, and other locations in London where the exhibition will be open to the public, then it moves to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Summit, April 2018. Later in the year, the design will be showcased at the UN House in New York for the UN General Assembly Meeting.

The Commonwealth Fashion Exchange, managed by Eco-Age, and supported by the Commonwealth Fashion Council and the British Fashion Council encouraged the creation of a custom-made gown for the exhibition, using Principles of Sustainable Excellence, relating to the environment and social justice. In relation to the exchange aspect of the project, designers were required to work with artisans from other countries in order to create and design the look. Shasha Designs was matched with Launesha Barnes of Antigua and Barbuda, and we ‘exchanged’ information about traditional heritage, skills, craftsmanship and culture in order to create the custom-made gown which represents fashion from the Commonwealth.

Launesha supplied most of the materials used to create the garment, and she explained the cultural significance of the materials used for Antigua and Barbuda.

Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

The allure of

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Masquerade Bands Some of the masqueraders on display on Mash Day (Photos by Adrian Narine and Samuel Maughn)

By Shirley Thomas MASH in Guyana wouldn’t be Mash without the stimulating and captivating presence of masquerade dancers - with a reputation for being literally the epic masters of street dancing.

And true to form, on Mash Day last Friday, as Guyana’s biggest Mashramani celebration – the Costume Band and Float Parade took to the streets of Georgetown, literally dozens of colourfully-attired masquerade dancers regaled the thousands of onlookers with a fine display of rhythmic and well-rehearsed performances.

There were bands from Ann’s Grove; Victoria; West Demerara, Belladrum; Weldaad, Golden Fleece and Number 28, Berbice and the West Bank Demerara Masquerade Band which under its leader Kwame Franklin, put forward a stimulating display. The West Bank Demerara Band, taking their performances to another level, was recently adjudged the Best Musical Band, while copping the second place position in the King of the Road category.

Preparing the Pepperpot Magazine for what was in store, moments before the start of their performances, June Annie Reid, the excited mother of the Ann’s Grove band leader, Otis Reid, declared: “What we have for you is the best, simply the best! We’ll be doing nine steps in the masquerade and our performers include even the very young,” she said.

And living up to expectations, the masqueraders put on a fantastic show, featuring nine of 12 steps namely: The Flounce, expertly delivered by kids as young as five and seven

years old. Other steps include: Bam-Bam Sally; Lady going to Market; Mad Cow; Side to Side; Breast Plate; Shovel; Chucku-Chucku, Circle; Elleo Toto; Long Lady; Stilt; the Drummers; and Style off – the art form which demonstrates how the money collector (dancing all the while) picks up tips or donations of cash which would have fallen onto the ground.

Meanwhile, specialists in Mash; Queh Queh; Soire and Lumbay music was ‘Saxe De Brothers Band’ and ‘DemVillage Guyana’ heading a 75-strong contingent of masquerade revellers hailing from Belladrum, including Plantation Profit/Rising Sun; Number 28 and Golden Fleece.

The band features Lumbay music created by two groups – a contingent each from Guyana and New Jersey.

The New York vocalist is Carl Fraser, while Michael Fraser of El Dorado Village is the local director who keeps the young talented members motivated and mobilised. He

generally oversees the operations of the band.

The elder Fraser said that at the centre of all that the band does, is the passionate interest in trying to get the young people to revive and take pride in their culture, amongst which is the masquerade as an art form.

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Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

'You can make a living off of Guyanese music' – 2018 Carib Soca Monarch Brandon Harding

By Rawle Toney

never won,” Harding said. “So when people see me here, I want them to understand that I am proof to youths that you can make a living off music coming from Guyana because music is all I do and it’s how I take care of my two children.”

Brandon’s success story comes with its fair share of struggles, as the Lindener explained, “Coming from Guyana alone is a fight-down so I really use to be sidelined a lot. The good

HE ROSE to prominence in 2011, winning the GTT Jingle and Song Competition and drove off with a brand new Toyota IST. It was clear from then on, that Brandon Harding was destined for great things.

Fast forward seven years later (2018), he returned to Guyana (from St Lucia) to easily take the coveted CarBrandon Harding during his winning performance of ib Soca Monarch title and ‘Alive’ at D’urban Park last weekend at the Carib Soca the competition’s $1.2M Monarch (Adrian Narine photos) first-place prize.

Harding’s track, “Alive”, an infectious and euphonious song that speaks about positivity and rising above challenges, is currently the most rotated song during Guyana’s celebration of Republic Day/ Mashramani.

“It feels good to know that I get to accomplish something as an artiste, especially coming out of Linden. It also feels really good to be in the same mention with ‘Jomo’ and ‘Adrian’ (Dutchin); those guys I always wanted to be like and I look up to them,” Harding told the Pepperpot Magazine in an exclusive interview.

The 23-year-old who hails from Coomacka, a predominantly Amerindian Village in Linden, believes that thing is that I never stopped working and pushing hard.” his win at the Carib Soca Monarch was by no mistake, since “I learned to understand that not everyone will like you, he has been riding a wave of success while living in St Lucia. and that’s one of my biggest challenges in life and more so “I’m two-time ‘Soca Switch’ champion (2016, 2017) and in music; dealing with someone. It has helped me to get here, the Piton Soca Starz champion (2015) in St Lucia. I entered [to] winning the Soca Monarch and it will help me further,” the St Lucian Soca Monarch a couple times as well, but I said Harding.

Asked about what this present success does for him, Brandon told the Pepperpot Magazine, “It gives me a sense of pride. I didn’t do any promotion for the song and people started playing it. The song I won the Monarch with has been out since last December, but it never played in Guyana. So thanks to the Carib Soca Monarch, people heard it and fell in love with it.”

“Winning the Soca Monarch also makes me a little more marketable and also forces me to work harder,” he said. “However, it doesn’t change who Brandon is right now, which is a humble man.

People in Guyana probably still see me as the little boy that won the jingle competition years ago, but I’ve grown so much since then and fell deeper in love with music. I take my craft way more serious now.”

He added that “Based on the success of my entry in the Carib Soca Monarch and the feedback, certainly I will be trying my best to have plenty of my music reach Guyana. I want to thank everyone here (in Guyana) for being very receptive to my new music and I promise that I will continue to do Guyana proud.”

Harding, who sings with the DYP Band, plans to enter the St Lucia Soca Monarch this year where he will be hoping to better his previous showing in the competition.

“I always represent Guyana wherever I go, so in St Lucia, like I always do, I will be flying that Golden Arrowhead in that competition,” said Harding.

Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

V

Rose Hall Town comes alive with Mashramani children’s parade

By Tracy Khan THE town of Rose Hall came alive with colours, costumes and hundreds of revellers marching the streets for the Scotia Bank Children’s Mash Parade hosted by the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club.

Ten schools, the Police Youth Group, Orphanages, and residents from the Amerindian Hostel in Berbice proudly carried banners and flags to celebrate Guyana’s Republic anniversary as they marched from Hampshire Village to Rose Hall Town.

The school students, residents both young and old feted down the road to Soca music and enjoyed being cheered by persons as they passed.

Residents told the Pepperpot Magazine that the event

Revellers marching down the road

Teachers and students converge at school for the dance and poetry competition

was fun and greatly appreciated on the Corentyne because nothing is held on Mash Day in the area.

The revellers converged at the town’s Primary school where a dance and poetry competition was held.

J.C. Chandisingh Secondary walked away as the Dance Champion for 2018 while Tain Primary copped the prize for the Best Poem. The prizes are cash and will be presented to the schools on Friday by the Sports Club.

Secretary and President of the club, Mr Hilbert Foster said that he was elated for the community spirit demonstrated by residents.

“The main aim of the parade is to get our young people to say no to drugs, alcohol, crime, and suicide and yes to education and life...It was the biggest we had and the turn out to support was overwhelming,” Mr Foster explained.

This is Scotia Bank’s fourth Children’s Mash Parade with the Sports Club and its partners.

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Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

Making beautiful music with the violin

Akeem Adams determined to make the violin a popular sound in Guyana

By M Margaret Burke IN ACT One, Scene One lines one through three from the play Twelfth Night, Shakespeare said: “If music be the food of love, play on; give me excess of it…” Even as the Pepperpot Magazine attempted to tread the stairs of the National School of Music to have an interview with Violinist Akeem Adams, the sound of the violin being played somewhere on the top floor was both inducing and wooing.

It was Adams playing the violin; playing other music before going to the song he was asked to play on the eve of Mashramani at D’Urban Park. The piece is entitled: “Oh Beautiful Guyana,” but even more than that he was enjoying himself to the sounds that he has grown to love over the few years he has gotten into the violin.

“I initially came here to learn keyboard or guitar, but my sister wanted me to play the violin and I hesitated. I was like, ‘Why would I want to do violin?’ However, when I got into the door the first thing I heard was the violin – it was my then teacher playing it; she was a volunteer from the US Embassy – Ms Jillian Hoke, but she is not here anymore.

After hearing her I just knew I had to play this thing,” said Akeem Adams.

its ground there would have to be committed people who are willing to encourage, and even invest in higher training for people who are willing to give their all toward the spread and improvement of this type of music, and to improving music in general.

“There are times when I feel frustrated and feel like giving up, but I love the music and desire to see it improve. At the moment I am teaching myself because there is no teacher available to teach me and that is not as good as having a tangible person there,” he said Adams said that there was a teacher when he started but because she works with the US Embassy she was transferred to Mexico, as her job required her to be there. Since then there is nobody there.

Mr. Akeem Adams enjoying one of his favourite pieces

THE LITTLE BOX This small-built 21-year-old, who hails from Georgetown is now fascinated by what he refers to, “This little box that can make so much sound.” He said that while the violin is not yet well-known or appreciated a whole lot, he usually get ‘gigs’ where he is asked

to play at special functions or events and for which he is paid.

FLAG-RAISING CEREMONY Adams performed “Oh Beautiful Guyana” with guitarist Alana Wade at the flag-raising ceremony at the D’Urban Park. “I may also be involved in other activities – it depends on what comes up. I am always ready, always prepared for any event, once I am asked to participate,” Adams assured.

The musician does not only visit the National School of Music for practice exercise, he also assists in teaching an average of 12 young people who are also desirous of becoming experts at playing the violin. He noted that while he is confident that many of the children can play well enough to also take part in the Mashramani activities, some of them are not as regular as they should be because of the SSEE examinations, but he has been seeing progress with the group.

VIOLIN BEING MORE VERSATILE “I hope to record music with the violin – to do something different, like deviate from the stereotype, i.e. the classical instrument and do something else with it; like teach and pass on the knowledge,” he said. “Also, I would like to see the violin becoming more versatile. It is not just for the orchestra and for the aristocrats. The sound of the violin is rear is this part of the world.

“I am striving for perfection – well to be the best that I can be, even as I move from one level to another because I understand that I cannot be right up there at one time, but I want to give satisfaction to the Guyanese people, most of whom are not yet appreciative of the violin music,” young Adams proclaimed.

He told the Pepperpot Magazine that he is striving to excel and would like to see the violin not as competing with the guitar or any other instrument, but as a combination with musical instruments that can complement each other, even as the violin can still continue to stand out on its own.

COMMITTED PEOPLE Mr Adams said that for the violin to stand

COPYRIGHT LAW “Playing for others gives you more confidence in yourself,” he said and so he has expressed the desire to get much more involved in the musical and general cultural presentations. At the same time he is hopeful of being able to put his music to the test by way of recording and marketing it in Guyana at first, but in other parts of the world as well. He expressed the hope and optimism that this type of music will become widely accepted, especially in Guyana where it seems to be less appreciated at this time.

However, Adams is of the view that for there to be success in the music industry within Guyana – with the violin, as well as with other types of music- “I think that the President should keep his promise to pass that copyright law when it comes to music, so that artists could make some kind of money. While we enjoy what we do, those of us who are serious do not only do it for fun – we have to live. It is not just about the glamour of being celebrities; we have commitments and families to maintain.”

He explained that President Granger’s promise is to help artists make a living so that their music is not sold cheaply and where they have no control over the people who record their recordings, take it out on the market and sell it for whatever price they want.

A VISION “My vision is to see Guyanese appreciate the violin. Most times when I go to play I don’t play classical pieces because Guyanese people just shun those; I learn more popular music, contemporary music, music with melody and concentrate my effort in playing these,” he expressed.

Adams said that he envisioned the violin involved in many more musical presentations at the Cultural Centre; Theatre Guild; the University of Guyana; at various national and international events and so on. Being recognised is one major way of getting acceptance in the country, he posited. He, therefore, appealed to the powers that be to pay some more attention to the violin and at the same time implement the copyright. (mercilinburke2017@ gmail.com)

Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

VII

Manari Ranch to become Rupununi’s cultural oasis year round - Following successful hosting of Music and Arts Festival

THE recently held Rupununi Music and Arts Festival at Manari Ranch in Lethem has been hailed a success by its organisers with over 40 persons volunteering to fix up the facility that was used for the first-time.

Previously held at the Rock View Lodge in Anai, the organisers are now looking to develop the Manari Ranch to a point where it can serve as a ‘cultural oasis’ in the Rupununi that will be functional all year round.

Festival Director, Bob Ramdhani, told the Pepperpot Magazine in an interview at Cara Lodge in Georgetown, that the festival weekend saw approximately 1,400 people on site.

“Moving to a site for the first time…I was pleasantly surprised that we even had an audience,” he said.

All of the artistes who performed at the event, including those from Trinidad, Jamaica, Venezuela and Brazil, thoroughly enjoyed themselves, along with the audience, Ramdhani noted.

He said each year, the festival will make a contribution to an institution in Lethem. This year, the Saint Stanislaus College Scout Group made a presentation of toys and musical instruments to the Arapaima Secondary School.

“We have a dream and a five-year plan to create something that encourages eco-tourism, environmental sustainability; and

Festival Director, Bob Ramdhani (at centre) with Gavin Mendonca (right) and ‘Chucky’

young people in sports, arts and music,” he said.

One of the performers, Gavin Mendonca, who also helped to organise the festival which ran from February 16 to 18, told the Pepperpot Magazine that it was “a truly magnificent experience.”

“I actually spent seven days living in a tent. I was on site two days prior to the festival to aid on-site preparations, and then stayed back three days to clean up and pack up the site,” he said, adding, “The energy was amazing; so many new friends were made and good vibes shared. The atmosphere was incredible, the food was delicious and the entertainment was top notch.”

Mendonca praised the Saint Stanislaus College Scout Group for playing a huge role in fixing up the festival site.

“They constructed a nice gateway to the campsite, a Brynach Tower on the campsite which was used for security, a Monkey Bridge which saw many children and patrons enjoying, as well as campfires to close off each night of the festival,” he said.

He added that the successful execution of the festival proved that it is what is best for tourism in Guyana, as well as social cohesion. “All walks of life were present, including locals from the region and people from Georgetown, Jamaica, Brazil, Venezuela, Ireland, UK, USA, Amsterdam, and much

This year, Saint Stanislaus College Scout Group made a presentation to Arapaima Secondary School of toys and musical instruments

Visitors had a chance to camp out on site

A group of participants

Visitors having fun over the weekend

more. Manari Ranch is now home to one of the most unique experiences one could ever have here in Guyana - the Rupununi Music and Arts Festival. I look forward to being there again in 2019, and to see as many people, from Georgetown especially, make the trip and have an adventure of a lifetime in the heart of Guyana,” he said.

In a previous interview, Mendonca had said that the festival is intended to bring people and cultures together. “It’s really about bringing people together, to cut out bad vibes and to encourage positivity among each other. We hope that over the years this will have a subliminal effect on the way people think; the way they approach life,” he said.

The ranch, which was developed from scratch in terms of a stage and other facilities conducive to holding a successful festival, is intended to become a fully functioning entity all year round so that it will be possible for smaller events to be held like folk festivals, Brazilian festivals, indigenous events, rock festivals, cultural workshops, etc.

Sponsors for the festival included the Guyana Government, NCN, the media, Guyana Tourism Authority, the Forestry Commission of Guyana, ASL, Banks DIH, Cara Lodge, Fly Jamaica, Giftland Mall, Rent-A-Tent, Republic Bank, Silverbait Design and TGA.

Jackie Jaxx performing

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Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

Seven Years Later Part 3

Berbice accident court case scheduled for March

By Tracy Khan

AFTER witnessing the death of 12 persons

in the most horrific way almost eight years ago, life has not been the same for the five survivors who are still haunted by the

events of that day.

As I conclude my three-part series on the accident which sent shockwaves across Berbice and created heartache and unspeakable pain for many families, we will hear from the survivors who escaped with mere injuries that dreadful day.

Giving a first-hand account of what really occurred was Tameka Fraser, 31, a mother of five. She remembers vividly it was raining and how happy she was to be travelling with her younger sister and nephew to New Amsterdam to transact business when suddenly this truck came out of nowhere and crashed into the minibus which was carrying 17 passengers.

couldn't get up because my hip and shoulders break," the young woman recalled. "I'm glad I survived but it was hard at first because I was not able to go to school or walk. I don't want justice for me but the persons who died because it's not fair to kill 12 persons and just walk away."

Sham ‘Chubby’ Jaggernauth, another survivor of Nigg, Corentyne, also defended the minibus driver. He lost his wife, Cindy, and was forced to raise their two children alone.

He has still not moved on from that day.

"It's a hard thing to lose your wife so long and not get justice, and that man hit everybody and he out on the road free and everybody else on stress, and now me children

Tameka walked away with some scratches and bruises but lost two loved ones that day, her two-month-old nephew, Josiah Khan and her 21-year-old sister, Talitha Mendonca.

"It came to a stop. I came out in search of my sister and nephew and when I saw my sister I already knew she was dead, her head was hanging from a drain and it was just dripping...

Anybody holding a baby would shake them and so I shook my nephew awhile and didn't even know his brain and everything was out," she said. "I end up naming one of my son, Josiah and most of the times when I deal with my son I wonder what my nephew would have been like, so it's hard."

She went on to defend the now dead minibus driver, Oudit Babulall, stating that he was in no way responsible for the accident.

"I can remember clearly telling my sister 'girl what time we gon reach? this man driving real slow' and she was like 'we gon reach just now' and shortly after that the accident happen," she recalled.

Feona Singh was a 14-year-old student of Corentyne Comprehensive High on her way home when she almost lost her life. She is now 21 and is still learning to cope with the devastation and trauma that the accident caused.

"I remember when I was at Suzanne Village because I usually watch out at the window to know that I am close to home to tell the driver where to stop, but at the time it was raining and the bus wasn't going speed, and then I looked back out and only remember waking up on the scene in a truck and I

them without a mother," he said.

Ashwatie 'Debbie' Singh was working on the minibus when the accident happened and was injured and hospitalised for several weeks. She lost her husband, Oudit Babulall, who was the driver. The couple made a living providing public transport with their minibus.

"The only thing I can remember is that I see this truck coming in front the bus and I heard a hard noise and then I became conscious, it was days later. I realise my husband was dead and couldn't believe it, and I keep asking for my daughter because sometimes she does be in the bus and I was told she was safe," the woman said.

We could not locate Nicola Ross of East Coast Demerara, the last survivor. The survivors are thankful for their lives but are calling for justice for those who did not make it that day.

This newspaper was told that the matter will finally come up in the New Amsterdam High Court in March 2018 before Justice Sandil Kissoon.

Relatives are happy about this update and hope to finally receive closure.

Interesting Mashramani Fashion

Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

Guyana Chronicle staff, Akash Persaud and his brother-in-law decided to dye their hair fluorescent green for Mash! “Green represents Guyana’s forests and it is a colour on our National Flag,” Akash said

Fidel Collin with his colourful hair. Collin said that he chose the hairstyle because it is a symbol of Mash due to the fact that the occasion is filled with colourful events and it brings out the sparkling part of anyone

Linda McPherson in her matching red top and hair. Linda said that she loves to be very flambouyant with her colours and she just decided to wear red on Mash Day

A Mexican representing the Indigenous culture. This young man told the Pepperpot Magazine that he chose to wear this outfit because in Guyana most people take him for an Amerindian so today he decided to represent their culture

This Brazilian woman is all set to enjoy our Mash

IX It’s our 48th Republic Anniversary and it’s the day when most Guyanese come out in their numbers dressed in colourful and marvellous clothing , hairstyles or even makeup that represent our rich and diverse Guyanese culture.

Here are some interesting pictures of people on Mash day.

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Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

Special Occasions Service and their scrumptious cheesecakes

By Michel Outridge

AT THE mere mention of cheesecake one can become weak at the knees since it is a known fact that many simply cannot resist a good cheesecake even if you are full to the brim.

The love of cheesecake is an addiction that cannot be stopped and that is where Special

Occasion Services, an online service, comes in ready to assist.

Special Occasion Services, the brainchild of Indranie Murray, was established two years ago and just two days shy of her 29th birthday.

She started out by making pizza and today her business is known for its excellent service and quality products.

Murray told the Pepperpot Magazine that her business is an online service and is featured on Whatsapp, Facebook and Instagram.

She explained that it all started when a friend who resides overseas asked her to surprise his girlfriend here with cheesecake. She obliged and things turned out wonderfully, so much so, that the young lady encouraged her to set up her own business. Murray stated that it was in 2016 and she never looked back after quitting her full-time job.

The idea was fully supported by her husband who still holds his full-time job but assists whenever the need arises. Today Murray is looking to open a café where folks can have a scrumptious snack.

Her aim is to maintain that ‘homey’ feeling with a quaint bakery or café-kind of establishment where persons can get tasty cupcakes, cheesecakes and other goodies.

Murray said she started out with cheesecake, cupcakes, flowers and balloons where it was delivered to clients, then she added ‘surprises’ to it delivering alcoholic beverages, champagne, wines, roses and whatever else is needed based on the request of the customer.

The entrepreneur said she customised her services to suit the needs of her clients and the

response has been excellent so far.

She stated that before she quit her job she did her business on her lunch break but the time was not enough to cater to the needs of her customers. Now she can work at her own pace even though it is time-consuming, baking is not ‘a walk in the park.’

Murray said she enjoys baking, a skill she has mastered at age 13 when she used to bake pizza and she was given pointers by an elderly woman in her village and based on that she got better.

Special Occasions Services has three parttime employees and Murray works right out of the comfort of her home in the city.

Murray related that she has had 98 percent positive feedback so far and that her shortcomings were due to issues with delivery, not the products since her prices are ‘easy on the pockets’ and are of good quality and standard.

“Although my business is small I am in it to stay and my long-term goal is to have my own small café where I can bake cakes for every day as well as birthday cakes which is one of my specialities,” she said.

Murray added that her service provides surprises for any occasion, be it birthdays, wedding anniversaries or other gatherings.

Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

XI

Chowtal and Ulaara singing are essential to Phagwah

By Indrawattie Natram CHOWTAL singing or “jaal clashing” which officially originated during the 18381917 amongst the indentured workers, in India, has officially become the essence of the Phagwah season in Guyana and today has become popular in every Temple during the festival of colours. In fact, history has proven that Chowtal singing commences the season of Phagwah with various groups getting together before the actual celebration of the festival or before the smearing of abeer (abir) or abrack begins.

Chowtal is a special folk song performed

performances with special folk dances.

“Chowtal” is, in fact, an umbrella term for the format, which comprises various subgenres including chowtal proper, jhumar, ulara, lej, baiswara, dhamar, rasiya, kabir, jogira, and others. Popular amongst the Chowtal are, “Shiva Shankar Ka Deen Dyala Maha Baradhani”, “ Ragunandan Awada ah Bharry Kay Shara rang marri” and Holi Kay Dai Ragubeera”.

Chowtal singing ushers in the festival of Holi, a festival that is observed with prayers and a rejoicing of ranges of ceremonies. The Members from Cotton Field/Bushlot mandir singing Chowtal at the Aurora Estate mandir annual chowtal sammelan

Members of the Airy Hall mandir chowtal group

Members of the Adventure mandir participating in the singing of chowtal

during the Phagwah celebrations and culminates the passion of the season. Chowtal, aside from being the name of a “taal” or meter in Hindustani classical music, is a form of folksong of North India’s Bhojpuri region, sung by religious leaders during the vernal Phagwah or Holi festival.

Before “Holika Dahan” is performed it is customary to have Chowtal sammelan organised by various groups, organisations and temples to usher the Spring festival. Some groups also compete for attractive prizes during this season as it gives them the opportunity to “clash their jaals the loudest” and beat the drums to the rhythmic tunes.

Chowtal, the high-pitched songs, are usually accompanied by the drums (dholak) and the majeera, producing a rich cultural blend of talent and skill.

Chowtal singing brings forth messages of love, peace, and cultural history. Each group also presents themselves by dressing in brightly coloured uniforms, turbans and an assortment of traditional garments symbolic of Indian Folk Culture.

In Chowtal, two rows of singers face each other (semi-circle), with a “dholak” drummer at one end, they sing lines of Hindi text antiphonally. While the melodies are relatively simple, the song undergoes various modulations of rhythm and tempo, alternating between subdued passages and exciting climaxes. Chowtal is generally sung by enthusiasts for their own pleasure, rather than for an audience.

Each group comprises of 15 to 20 members and they perform for approximately 10 minutes. They show off their unique singing skills, drumming techniques, jaal clashing techniques and sometimes the sounds are so daring it is accompanied by

burning of “Holika” is very symbolic and signifies good over evil. A bonfire is usually built in community centres or recreational grounds and is burnt on the Phagwah eve “Holika Dhaan” night. On Phagwah the spraying of coloured water known as abeer (abir) or sprinkling of various coloured powder begins with the continuous singing of Chowtal.

Chowtal singing is very popular also in the diaspora communities of Indo-Caribbeans in New York, Holland, Jamaica, Suriname, Trinidad, Australia, the West Coast of North America, and elsewhere.

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Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

Ryan Hoppie

– the youth ambassador helping others to ‘Come Alive’

By Ravena Gildharie MANY successful young persons have intriguing stories of their journey through trials to triumph; recollections of hardships and helping hands that aided their rise. But how many can attest to converting their achievements to help others, and being the change they want in society?

Take Ryan Hoppie, per- Ryan Hoppie haps more famous for winning the 2013 GTT Jingle Competition, than for his impactful youth development work that has already reached thousands of Guyanese youngsters.

When he took the stage five years ago during the competition, Hoppie’s singing quickly captured the hearts of judges and audiences, and he earned the champion’s title. Though he successfully pursued other music projects, Hoppie is more

sive community and global development.”

Offering a transformative mentorship programme, CANI has recorded the successes of

A CANI volunteer is fitting new shoes on kids

CANI’s Director, Ryan Hoppie (at right) presents a certificate to a new CANI volunteer (CANI photos)

get to write CXC at all. Plus, I had two other siblings living with me,” related Hoppie, a former St. Joseph High student, who has 11 other siblings.

In the midst of his woes, Hoppie’s pastor and youth mentor reached out. helping troubled youths become entrepre“He paid neurs and seeing depressed teenagers blossom A CANI public speaking session for everything. into community leadership roles. Held for 12 My CXC fees, weeks early in the year, the sessions support, my books and in groups and concentrate on a number of arstationery and eas such a business, history, public-speaking helped take etc. Each group is expected to develop ideas care of not for community projects in which participants only me but my can pursue leadership roles. The initiative siblings. That seeks to embrace each individual in a support was a defining network to help them overcome problems, moment, it was build self-esteem, focus their goals and go one of the most after those. selfless acts I The sessions are conducted by CANI volhad ever seen unteers, which Hoppie said currently exceeds when you are 80. He is pleased too with the response of Ryan Hoppie performing at in a real down, President David Granger’s stakeholders, partners and businesses/indidark place and inauguration 2015 viduals that support the ventures, including somebody just the shoe drive. To date, CANI has distributed steps in and driven as a youth ambassador. Whether he’s fitting a pair of over 1500 pairs of footwear along with stationew shoes on the feet of a child in a depressed community or help,” the Queens Young Leader told the Pepperpot. nery to kids in areas such as Albouystown, New Amsterdam, mentoring a troubled youth, Hoppie is the epitome of a big Charity, Enmore, Linden and Mocha. While on the outreach, brother; that symbol of hope when life seems burdened. After ‘COME ALIVE’ CANI volunteers hold mentorship talks with youth and parHoppie successfully attained all 11 subjects he wrote at ents, promoting the value of education, disciple and morals. all, it’s personal, as Hoppie, a former resident of Lodge, now age 30, recalls his own dull period when someone’s compas- CXC. He then secured a B.Sc. in International Relations at =The third signature CANI project is the ‘Just Youth It’ the University of Guyana and entered the world of work. But (JYI) Annual Conference, which started with 200 participants sion inspired him.

“When I about 16 and preparing to write CXC, my fa- his calling to youth work grew more intense and in 2012, he and is now attracting over 350. The one-day event serves as an ther passed away...he was the primary breadwinner so the founded Come Alive Network Inc. (CANI), a non-profit organ- inspiration platform for young people where they are exposed financial challenges were many. I didn’t even know how I isation that “supports youth through the use of applied global and motivated to think outside the box. There are panel discuswas going to pay for my subjects and whether I was going to perspectives to effectively contribute to a genuine and progres- sions on various topics and they are usually led by influential national, regional and international guest speakers. Interactive brainstorming sessions are also conducted followed by field visits to various city establishments.

A very proud Hoppie reported that the Guyana Animation Network was birthed from one of the conferences that focused on animations while from another, a participant conceptualised an idea for a Swap App, which is soon to be launched.

Several other youths have started their own businesses based on the motivation, support and networks they gained at JIY conferences. And, that’s exactly the impact Hoppie envisaged though he once assumed he needed a lot of money to make it happen.

He was however nudged to act by a quote from famed African-American theologian, Howard Thurman: “Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.”

The ‘Come Alive’ concept inspired the name of Hoppie’s foundation.

A 2016/2017 Chevening Scholar who obtained his Masters in International Social Development at the University of East Anglia, United Kingdom, Hoppie is also a Global Shaper and Youth Ambassador Mentor.

CANI volunteer with beneficiary of the network’s shoe and stationery drive

Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

XIII

Basil Butcher, a name synonymous with Mashramani in his communities – Berbice and McKenzie, he still found time to have good pleasure in life. Added to his activities he joined the Jaycees of Linden, where he once more showed his commitment to the development of the community in which he lived.

INDEPENDENCE AND MASHRAMANI The Jaycees in Linden were involved in a number of activities, but one of them was the Independence ‘Carnival’ in which Butcher played a key role; this they started just after Guyana gained Independence in 1966.

Guyana then began to put thought into action for its Republican status, which the country gained in 1970. Butcher again became an active player in the planning committee for this event. It was during this time that the Amerindian name:

Mr Basil Butcher

By M Margaret Burke WITH the passing of time, Basil Butcher’s interest in the Mashramani celebrations has waned to a large extent, the same as has been done with cricket – another activity

Mr Basil Butcher and his lovely wife

Mr Butcher celebrating his birthday with his wife Pamela

with which his name has been associated for many years.

However, he remains a pleasant man, still with a lot of life within him, especially as he is being cared for by his lovely wife of 56 years and also his adult children.

Mr Basil Butcher and his three sons

He is very proud to have been able to contribute to this country of his birth in varying ways and has no grouse about doing so. What he hopes for nonetheless, is that persons visit, sit and chat with him, for while he is not capable of speaking as much as before, he still feels that he has a whole lot to say and contributions he could make to his country.

Basil Fitzherbert Butcher was a strong West Indian middle-order and the first Aboriginal to play professional cricket, rubbing shoulders with the likes of Clive Lloyd, Garry Sobers, Seymour Nurse and others, where he played an average of 44 Tests. In 2008, Butcher was inducted into the Berbice Hall of Fame, joining men such as Rohan Kanhai, Roy Fredericks, Alvin Kallicharran, John Trim and others.

Born on September 3, 1933, at Port Mourant, Berbice, from a Barbadian father and a Berbician mother, Butcher told the Pepperpot Magazine that he felt as though he was born a cricketer; “From the time I was ‘hatched’ I was a cricketer,” he said with a chuckle.

CAREER Butcher taught for a number of years before going on to become a clerk in the Public Works Department; he then gave his service as a Welfare Officer at the sugar company in Berbice. He also did some work as an insurance salesperson, especially up the Berbice River, since there was no other person in that area doing the same. He said that this was done when he was not playing cricket.

After moving to Mackenzie in the early ‘60s he got involved in coaching cricket at the Mackenzie Sports Club, something he said he really enjoyed doing. Eventually, Butcher started working with the Demerara Bauxite Company (DEMBA) in the field of Public Relations.

Butcher said that while he was always gainfully engaged in a number of activities with-

Mr Basil Butcher shaking hands with Sir Garry Sobers, (his daughter partly hidden)

‘Mashramani’ – meaning “Celebration after hard work” was derived. He was the only Amerindian on the team.

FAMILY LIFE With all of his activities and fame, Butcher took the time to meet, court and then got married on March 17, 1962, to a beautiful lady – Pamela. This marriage is now 56 years old and has produced four lovely children: three boys and one girl. His children continue to be a pillar of strength to both him and his wife. While the children are mostly overseas they remain in constant contact with their parents.

Basil Butcher feels that his life is a simple story…like many others; he has not wasted time but did what he had to do to make Guyana a better place. “I also did my little misbehaving at times; I was not always easy,” looking at his wife playfully as he said that. Pamela Butcher, on the other hand, was obviously not indifferent toward him, but on the contrary feels very proud of herself to have been associated with him as his ‘better half’ – more than half of a century, not out. (mercilinburke2017@ gmail.com)

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Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

Upright, well-pruned tomato plants have fewer problems THE demand for and availability of improved tomato varieties have encouraged

farmers and agricultural researchers to investigate the technique of pruning and

different staking methods to enhance crop production.

Unlike other plants, tomato for the first month directs all the sugar it produces towards the production of new leaves. During this stage, tomato plants grow very rapidly, doubling in size every 12 to 15 days. Eventually, the plant generates more sugar than the growing tip can use, which signals the plant to make new branches and to flower. This usually happens after 10 to 13 leaves have expanded, at which time the plant is 30cm to 45cm tall.

In the next few weeks, the entire character of the tomato plant changes, if unsupported, the increasing weight of filling fruit and multiple side branches forces the plant to lie on the ground. A vigorous indeterminate tomato plant can easily cover a 1 x 1 m area with as many stems, each 1 to 1.5m long. This creates a haven for disease and pest infestation, poor management of fruit production and low productivity.

A prostrate plant gets around to fruit production two or three weeks later than a pruned and staked plant. Most of the fruits are produced on the small side and tend to come in one big, late harvest.

A properly pruned and supported single-stem tomato plant presents all of its leaves to the sun. Most of the sugar produced is

directed to the developing fruit since the only competition is a single growing tip. The result is large fruits that are steadily produced. If more stems are allowed to develop, some of the sugar production is diverted from fruit to multiple growing tips. Fruit production, although, slow never stops. The result is a nearly continuous supply of fruits throughout the season. In general, more steams means more but smaller fruits, which are produced increasingly later in the season.

Pruning also affects plant health. The leaves of a pruned and supported plant dry off faster, so bacterial and fungal pathogens have less opportunity to spread. Soil is less liable to splash up onto stakes plants. The bottom line: Upright plants have fewer problems with leaf spots and fruit rots because their leaves stay drier and free from pathogen-laden soil.

As the tomato plant grows, side shoots, or suckers, form in the crotches, or axils, between the leaves and the main stem. If left alone, these suckers will grow just like the main stem, producing flowers and fruit. Suckers appear sequentially, from the bottom of the plant up.

The farther up on the plant a sucker develops, the weaker it is, because the sugar concentration gets lower as you move up the plant.

On the other hand, side stems arising from below the first flower cluster, although stronger; compromise the strength of the main stem.

For a multi-stemmed plant, your aim is to have all stems roughly the same size, although the main stem should always be stronger because it has to feed the entire plant for the next five to six months.

The way you choose to train and prune your tomato plants will affect how you space your plants, as well as the best method of support. There are two ways to deal with a sucker that is not destined to become a stem.

The simplest is to pinch it off entirely; not surprisingly this is called simple pruning.

This should be done when the sucker is still small and succulent. Grab the base of it, between your index finger and thumb, and bend it back and forth. The sucker should snap off, producing a small wound, which will heal quickly. Avoid cutting the sucker with a knife or scissors, because the resulting stump can become easily infected. Once a sucker becomes too tough and leathery to snap off, however, you’ll have to use a blade.

Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

FILES E S A C COURT

XV

Appellate Court dismissed appeal MANSLAUGHTER accused Kissoon Wazar Alli who stabbed his wife to death in 1967 and was sentenced to death after pleading guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter, appealed against the sentence as severe.

But the Court of Appeal constituted by Chancellor E.V. Luckhoo, and Justices of Appeal Guya Persaud and P.A. Cummings dismissed the appeal and refused leave to appeal to the Privy Council.

The facts of the case disclosed that the appellant was indicted for murder, but following the Crown’s willingness to accept a plea to the lesser count of manslaughter , the trial judge permitted this to be done, although, on the depositions there was no indication of any circumstances to justify the acceptance of such a plea.

The appellant was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment. In his plea to mitigation, counsel said inter alia that the appellant had suffered great mental anguish.

The appellant appealed on the ground that the trial judge had made no allowance in his sentence for the fact that he had pleaded guilty and had not contested any issue before the court.

The Appellate Court held: (i) A plea of guilty does not necessarily mean that the prisoner genuinely regrets his act; (ii) If a sentence appears to be proper and appropriate , it matters not that something was taken into account which ought not to have been or something was not taken into account which ought to have been. (iii) On the facts as appeared in the depositions, there was little, if anything, the judgment said, to mitigate the crime which had been committed, and in any event, if there was remorse the judge’s memorandum of sentence showed that he must have had it in mind.

In his judgment, Chancellor Luckhoo noted that there is an application in this appeal for leave to appeal against the sentence on the ground that the judge failed to give adequate consideration to the appellant’s plea of guilty to manslaughter.

He was on a charge of murder when the court, following the Crown’s willingness to accept that plea, permitted this to be done.

The appellant was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for what could well be described as a bestial and dastardly act in stabbing his reputed wife at least twice with a knife, which must have been at least 1 ½” in diameter, in the region of the heart and liver, puncturing the apex of the left ventricle, and the lobe of the liver.

The Chancellor went on to say, that on the depositions the learned trial judge on the authority of R v Soanes {1948} 32 C.A.R. , would have been entitled to refuse to allow the appellant to plead guilty

to manslaughter, because there was no indication on the deposition that circumstances existed to justify the acceptance of that plea.

In other words, no evidence appeared on the record from which it could be said that the deceased had done any act to the appellant which would and did cause in him a sudden and temporary loss of self-control, rendering him so subject to passion as to make him for the moment not master of his mind.

The Chancellor recalled that counsel for the appellant had cited the case of R. v. de Haan {1967} 3 All E.R. 618, as an authority for the contention that the trial judge had not made any allowance in his sentence for the fact that the appellant had pleaded guilty and had not contested any issue before the court.

He explained that there can be no doubt that credit can be given when a person does plead guilty to the fact that that person is facing up to realities, and shows some signs of repentence to justify a reduction from what would otherwise have been the sentence.

The Chancellor went on to state “In this case the appellant had gone to his motherin-law, Seupallie, for lunch, during which time he had imbibed a certain quantity of drink. The evidence reveals that three persons drank a quarter bottle of rum. After having his lunch he returned back to his home with his wife and children.

“Seupallie was on her verandah not far from the appellant’s home when she heard talking. Presumably there was a quarrel.

She then saw her daughter go out on her own verandah and the appellant followed her saying that he was going to kill her, whereupon she said to him “kill me nah” He then plunged a knife into her body which Seupallie saw was used more than once. Soon after the daughter fell to the floor and died. Seupallie shouted for help and one Paul Benjamin and another went to the scene.

“There was no evidence that the appellant’s wife had in any way provoked this grave attack on her. Paul Benjamin admitted that he took a piece of wood and he struck the appellant on his head for the purpose of disarming him because at that point of time he had a cutlass in his hand.

The appellant gave up the cutlass and the knife and told people about the place that he had killed his wife and he wanted to be taken to the police station. At the police station, he repeated that statement – that he had killed his wife. He made a written statement to the police in which he said, “Ah stab she wid the knife pun she left side because Paul Benjamin, she brother lashed me with a bellnah pan me head.”

“Paul Benjamin, on the evidence at the preliminary inquiry, was not at the appel-

lant’s home at the time when he stabbed his wife. He went there afterwards”, the Chancellor said and asked, “In this setting then, can this court say that that sentence of 10 years was excessive? Or was it not an appropriate sentence?

“On the facts as appeared on the depositions, there was little, if anything in mitigation of this crime committed. The appellant had had the benefit of his plea to manslaughter accepted which was an extraordinary advantage in the circumstances. I will assume that there was genuine remorse. Surely, the trial judge

m u s t h a v e had this

By George Barclay in his m i n d according to what he sa itid in his memorandum of sentence Having agreed to all the circumstances of this case it is the judgment of this court that the application for leave to appeal be refused. The appeal is dismissed and the conviction and sentence affirmed.

Judges Guya Persaud and P. Cummings concurred.

XVI

Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

What’s in your toothpaste?

WHILE people are free to use what they want, I believe it is a good idea for everyone to know what is in the products we are using for our oral health. Sometimes despite what may seem to be scientifically contradictory, even, we, dentists (including myself) and physicians, prefer and use many brand name kinds of toothpaste.

But please read the labels on your toothpaste and mouthwash, and see if any of the following ingredients appear. By the way, I wish to emphasise that I am in no way trying to degrade, criticise or disparage any tooth-

paste. I am simply giving some thought-provoking facts.

Triclosan (contained in Colgate Total) is EPA-registered as a pesticide. This chlorophenol gets high marks as a risk to both humans and the environment. It is in a class of chemicals suspected of causing cancer in humans and is similar in structure to dioxin, whose toxic effects are measured in parts per trillion (1 drop in 300 Olympic-size swimming pools). Triclosan is a hormone disrupter as well and can lead to circulatory collapse, cold sweats, and convulsions. Because it is stored in body fat, it can accumulate to toxic levels, which can lead to a number of problems, including brain haemorrhages, heart conditions, kidney damage, and paralysis. Since the oral soft tissues readily absorb whatever is in contact with them (remember the hot pepper), building up triclosan residues in the body could be easily accomplished.

Propylene Glycol (PG) present in some types of toothpaste is a chemical that

your Toyota recognises. It is an antifreeze, and you probably know that antifreeze ( used in countries that experience winter) has killed many cats and dogs that have lapped it up. PG is used as a wetting agent in toothpaste, but it is so readily absorbed into the skin that the EPA requires anyone working around it to wear goggles and protective clothing.

The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) warns against skin contact because PG has systemic consequences, such as the brain, kidney, and liver abnormalities. However, no such warning is required on underarm deodorants, toothpaste, or other products containing PG. Does the use of PG in toothpaste, for use in an area where it’s readily absorbed, seem logical to you?

In high concentration, sodium hydroxide (NaOH), an extremely alkaline substance, destroys protein instantly.

Turn to page XVII ►►►

Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

XVII

DRUG PROCUREMENT AND NATIONAL DRUG SECURITY FOR CONSUMER BENEFIT

GUYANA imports most of the pharmaceuticals it uses and this costs several billion dollars. With this volume, it is not unlikely that some sub-standard items are imported.

Such sub-standard products could impair the health of the population.

On Tuesday 13th February last week, the Ministry of Public Health, PAHO/WHO, the Caribbean Regulatory System (CRS) an agency of CARICOM and the Analyst Food and Drug Department met with a cross-section of the pharmaceutical importers for fairly wide-ranging discussions.

All the main speakers indicated that pharmaceuticals imported into the country must be effective, safe, affordable and in the case of the Ministry of Public Health must be in sufficient quantities to meet the needs of the population.

Some of the pitfalls pointed out are that proper labelling must be ensured with correct dosages, expiry dates being clearly printed, formulas stated and above all, all labels and instructions must be in English.

To ensure that drugs imported must be of requisite quality and that the companies which produce such drugs are reputable, a number of controls have been put in place. In the first place, importers will have to register with the Food and Drugs Analyst Department. This will make it possible to ascertain the authenticity of the companies which produce the drugs imported and allow for general surveillance of imports. For example, unsafe mosquito coils and insecticides have had to be removed from the market in the past by action of the Food and Drugs Department. But one of the most important agencies of the Regulatory regime is the Caribbean Regulatory System (CRS) which provides testing services for Guyana and other Caribbean territories. Such tests will ensure that the drugs which are made available are safe. One great pitfall in testing and in looking at the country of origin of drugs is that in the Caribbean there is a built-in prejudice that dates from colonial times, that only drugs produced or emanating from the Western countries are safe. In Guyana, we have had

some unfortunate experiences with drugs sourced from Western countries.

An example of this was a company from Hamburg, Germany named Helms which at one time supplied a large number of OTC (over the counter) drugs. Consumers began to complain about the adverse effects of Helms products. When the Bureau of Standards and the Food and Drugs Department did their inquiries, they discovered that Helms was a company which produced nothing, but merely farmed out the drugs it wished produced to a number of small “bottom-house” entities in Third World countries, then labelling them as if they were produced in Germany. None of the entities which produced Helms products were recognised drug producers.

Another such experience was antibiotics imported from an Italian company and which were found to be of lower strength than stated on the label and which could be a danger to health. For instance, if one went through an operation and the doctor prescribed a certain strength of antibiotic and the patient was given a lower strength, it could result in the operation wound becoming septic.

All the major pharmaceutical companies have established in India and produce both for the home and export market. There are also a number of large and reputable Indian companies, some of which specialise in generics. But, as in all large countries such as the United States and China, not all companies are reputable. Fortunately, the Guyanese suppliers who import drugs from India do so from only reputable companies. Accordingly, almost all the Indian pharmaceuticals sold in the Guyana market are of good quality. The one great advantage of the Indian-imported drugs is that they are affordable. Indeed, the products of the major Western drug companies such as Glaxo or Pfizer produced in India are less expensive than the same products coming from Western countries. Indian generics have won a respectable reputation worldwide.

The new Regulations now in place are commendable, and if worked as intended, should achieve the goal of imported drugs

◄◄◄ From page XVI

in quite a few types of toothpaste, is very dehydrating and acts as a carrier, facilitating the entry of other harmful chemicals into your soft tissues. On the skin, it promotes premature aging and brown spots. A fatal ingested dose is one ounce or less, it may cause dizziness, flushing, headaches, mental depression, narcosis, nausea, vomiting and even coma. As with all other harmful substances listed, I don’t know why SD-40, with its potentially harmful effects, is a common ingredient in toothpaste.

Ethanol is the primary component in the majority of mouthwashes, and it has an extraordinary ability to draw moisture out of living cells, noticeably dehydrating tissues. With alcohol contents of nearly 27 percent (54 proof), alcohol-based mouthwashes are known to be a cause of oral cancer for approximately 36,000 users a year (only smokers are more at risk for this form of cancer), and there were approximately 500 deaths in the year 2000 from this form of alcohol ingestion. Of all the ingredients in oral health products, alcohol may be the most harmful. Besides dehydration and the oral cancer risks associated with it, studies show that alcohol dissolves cosmetic fillings.

In the mouth, it dissolves oral soft tissues, imparting a sick feeling. Dissolving off the protein with NaOH is not the way I want my patients to get clean teeth yet many dentists use these products to clean their patients’ teeth.

Sodium lauryl (SLS), contained in many kinds of toothpaste, is a ubiquitous detergent and surfactant, which is also used in car washes, engine degreasers, and garage floor cleaners, poses a serious health risk because, like NaOH, it dissolves proteins.

Animals exposed to SLS experience diarrhoea, eye damage, laboured breathing, skin irritation, and even death. When combined with other chemicals, SLS can be transformed into nitrosamines, a potent class of carcinogens ( cancer forming).

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is used in cleansers to dissolve oil and grease and in personal products as a thickener. PEG is a potentially carcinogenic substance that, when used on the skin, alters its natural moisture factor, leaving the skin vulnerable to aging and invasion by harmful bacteria, PEG has no logical therapeutic benefit in toothpaste, but it is in quite a number of them. In addition, SD-40, an alcohol found

being of good quality, safe, effective and affordable.

The tender process for the purchase of drugs for the health facilities and hospitals of the Ministry of Public Health should always be in the interest of the consumer and never be in the interest of the suppliers. We have had suppliers who were engaged by the authorities in recent years whose prices were higher than other suppliers, or who were unable to supply in a timely manner. When drugs are being purchased by the governmental authorities “consumer interest” and not “supplier interest” must be the watchword.

The Government and other public and private authorities should not only address the purchase of drugs but should also address the issue of drug security. The two

main pharmaceutical producer companies are Twins Manufacturing and the Guyana Pharmaceutical Corporation (GPC). GPC succeeded the International Bookers Pharmaceutical which was the major Caribbean drug producer and inherited Bookers’ products and their formulations. GPC has given Guyana a measure of drug security and it has the infrastructure to give the country almost full drug security where we would not have to depend so heavily on imports. GPC should be encouraged to expand and enter the export market in a bigger way. For example, they should be encouraged to produce, or initially, to re-package antibiotics. The Ministry of Public Health and Go-Invest should take the initiative on the issue of drug security.

XVIII

Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

Guyanese Languages and Identity

By Gibron Rahim “A NATURAL language is the archive where the experiences, knowledge and beliefs of a community are stored.”

The above words were uttered by the late Spanish linguist Fernando Lázaro Carreter. It underscores the relationship between language and identity. Guyana’s many languages are a testament to our rich culture. Language preservation needs to be one of our priorities as we move forward as individuals and as a people. Mashramani and International Mother Language Day are reminders of that.

Wednesday last marked the first time that International Mother Language Day was celebrated in Guyana. The worldwide observance is held on February 21 every year since February 2000 with its goal being to “promote linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism”. For us here in Guyana, it may be considered fortuitous that the occasion is so close

to our Mashramani, a time when we celebrate our cultural diversity.

The event was held in the Education Lecture Theatre of the University of Guyana by the Guyana Languages Unit Working Group and the Faculty of Education and Humanities. Attendees were seated in a circle for the festivities, creating the ambience of a village gathering. Throughout the event, which lasted for over two hours, the audience was able to listen to stories and songs told in Arawak, Akawaio, Patamuna, Wapichan, Guyanese Creole (or Creolese) and English.

It was clearly evident very early on in the afternoon’s programme that it would be remiss to categorise all the Indigenous languages together into a group as such. Each of the languages spoken at the event had its own cadence and stress, its own identity. For some in attendance, it was their first time hearing those languages. From Michael Khan in his persona of ‘Ole Man Pappie’, who told a “Nancy Story” in Creolese, Literature on Indigenous languages and Creolese on display after the event

to Aunty Joan’s story of one of the legends of the village of Wakapoa, to name but a few of the presenters, the audience was invested to the end.

After the event, and as preparations were getting underway for the graduation of the students of the Creolese Writing class, the Pepperpot Magazine was able to speak to Charlene Wilkinson. Wilkinson, a lecturer in English at the University of Guyana, was one of the event’s organisers. She explained that she had no intentions of letting the International Mother Language Day pass by this year as it had in previous years. With Wilkinson receiving support from her colleagues, Dhaniswary Jaganath, Dr. Tamir De Lisser, Michael Khan, students of the Creolese Writing class and others, the group was able to put together the event.

Wilkinson acknowledged that the event was not as organised as it could have been. She clarified that she had put out a call for participants but that, in most cases, participants came in at the last minute. The event was thus not able to have a structured programme. This though worked in its favour for she said, “There is danger in too much planning too.” Her dream she told the Pepperpot Magazine is to have the event continue without a rigid structure in years to come. “If people get to understand each other’s aesthetic then we will begin to learn to blend together, which, for me, is what nation-building is about,” she said. Her firm belief is that we can create unity through the arts and through similar events.

Language and identity are two concepts that are tied up in each other. Indeed, Wilkinson emphatically noted that they are inseparable. Indeed, the talk she had prepared to deliver at the graduation later that evening was titled “Not a Blade o’ Grass, Not a Word Guh Loss”. The talk’s purpose was to show the relationship between environmental preservation and language preservation. “Our languages, especially the Indigenous languages, still carry the secrets and the knowledge and the wisdom of that relationship to the environment that the Western culture has destroyed,” explained Wilkinson. She conceded that it is true that individual words from the languages can be learnt. However, she noted that these words come with the language’s grammar, its body language and the relationship of the human body with the Earth itself. Because of that interconnectedness, cutting an Indigenous speaker off from their language also means severing that relationship to the Earth.

There is danger in relegating Creolese and the languages of the First Peoples to the background to put English at the forefront. Saying “English only” can begin the process of killing a language. Indeed, Wilkinson noted that we have evidence of that right here in Guyana. Berbice Dutch she said had been thriving at the time Guyana changed from Dutch to British hands. The British insisted on the speaking of solely English in schools which led to the eventual demise of Berbice Dutch.

Even after the end of the colonial period and perhaps even today, as Wilkinson pointed out, Indigenous children are being admonished for speaking their mother tongue. There is a fear, she explained, that speaking their languages will prevent them from being able to learn English. However, that is simply not the case. “It is more natural for us to take on many languages,” she emphasised.

One of the most important lessons from International Mother Language Day 2018 is that all languages are valid and valuable. It is true that English enables communication with our global community. This though does invalidate the worth of Creolese, Arawak, Akawaio, Arecuna, Carib, Macushi, Patamuna, Wai Wai, Wapichan or Warrau, and that is worth remembering.

Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

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IT GOES without saying, that Guyana is way more than So we were given the option of going to Turtle Mountain Georgetown, but it takes a trip outside of the city to really first and to the famous Canopy Walkway after, or vice versa. appreciate the country in all its splendour.

Whichever route you took, you’d have to really mentally This past week, I took a trip to what is called the heart of prepare for the journey.

Guyana. It’s way into Region Eight (Potaro- Siparuni), and I went to Turtle Mountain first, which to me was smarter. known quite famously as Iwokrama.

Getting there required a short boat ride on the mighty EsseAccording to my guide, Mr. Patterson, Iwokrama got its quibo River. The rapids along the river were unreal; going name from a mountain in the range; it’s a Macushi word which around them seemed like the boat was approaching these means ‘place of refuge’. mini-waterfalls and that was simultaneously exhilarating and The whole point (well, what should’ve been the point) of terrifying. If you can’t make it up the mountain (I’ll tell you us students going on this trip was to understand what a con- why in a bit), just go for the boat ride. servation is and the dynamics of a conservation. Iwokrama is Now, I was told that the journey up the mountain was conservation in Guyana, which means that some of the land is only an hour and a half hike. Turns out, there was a trail to set aside for sustainable development and the rest of the land the landing, then a trail from the landing to the foot of the consists of protected forests. mountain and then you had to actually trek on the mountain.

Sadly, while about 60 students and a few teachers from And I only found out all of this while on the hike, so imagine my school were away for three days, we only spent just over a my reaction when I was told- right after I began rejoicing that day at the Iwokrama lodge. This was because the drive from Queen’s College to Iwokrama took about 12 long hours, one side.

The view from the Iwokrama canopy Before departing I was told tales of the gruesome journey by bus and most of my friends were mentally preparing themselves for the motion sickness to step in. Surprisingly, the roads had only been graded so the journey was as smooth as it could possibly be. Still lots of bumps, though.

Now here, there isn’t much to see. It’s just miles and miles of pristine and untouched forests, and once or twice you’ll see a hawk or another bird fly by. When Mother Nature takes her lights off, however, the sky transforms itself into black blanket littered with diamonds. Without artificial lights to compete with, the sky was breathtaking.

Morning came too soon and by midday, we were in Iwokrama. In the 24 hours we were actually in there though, the group trekked up a 984-foot high mountain; up 160 stairs, across three hanging platforms; traversed along some trails and of course, indulged in loads of lollygagging.

The view from Turtle Mountain

Guyana is more than Georgetown

the hike was almost over- that I hadn’t even begun climbing the actual mountain.

The hike was punctuated by the sounds of the cicadas and screaming pihas, compounded by the rustling of the leaves, which would convince you that it was raining. I did get to see a cock-of-the-rock also, just before we reached the peak. Its bright red feathers stuck out like a sore thumb amidst all the greenery.

But finally, at the peak, boy that was something else.

You know the saying: “Life’s a climb but the view is worth it”? This view made the climb more than worthwhile. Picture an endless panorama of the trees in the rainforest with the Essequibo River slithering through it coupled with a backdrop of the mountains holding up the sky. Guyana is just majestic.

Fast forward to a few hours later, when it was time to go to the Iwokrama canopy; with our thighs still burning from the hike up Turtle Mountain and our bellies filled with cook-up, the climb up 160 stairs to get to the walkway just seemed too much.

At the top, the view from the canopy was definitely different from above Turtle Mountain. While the mountain provided a somewhat all-encompassing view, the canopy provided a minute projection of actual life inside the rainforest. And the trees here, the greenhearts and purple hearts (and ones I can’t remember)- hey made this six-foot tall youth feel like a tiny ant.

Between the stars, the Mountain View and the canopy, I’d say the aesthetics of the trip were very close to perfection, but only missed its mark because I didn’t get to see a jaguar (the locals call it a ‘jaggy’) or a `caiman.’.

Now, as the country celebrates its 48th Republic anniversary, the extravagant floats showed all the great things about Guyana, the flora, the fauna, the culture and the people. At the same time though, it’s worthwhile remembering how much more there is to this country and what it has to offer.

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Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

Mashramani is about spending quality family time together

By M Margaret Burke A STRONG family works together and plays together as well. They search for opportunities to spend quality and quantity time together as a family, but also with friends, improving their chances of sharing quality experiences and bettering their lives.

Studies have shown that eating meals together, talking about the events of the day, sharing joys and defeats, doing household chores together and spending some evenings having your favourite snacks, while watching a ‘good’ movie or having shared activities with friends are some examples of spending quality time.

MASHRAMANI For the Sampson family – Clive Sampson and Mrs. Vanessa Sampson, the owners of the Impeccable Banquet Hall, Brickdam and The Sampson family and friends Shantel’s Exotic Creation, Second Street, Alberttown, they told the Pepperpot noon – even when the last Magazine that along with their two young sons aged 13 and float and revellers pass 11 years, Mashramani is one occasion that they have been by, we still remain out using to spend such quality time. here having fun, he said.

“For 15 years we have been coming to this same spot to celebrate Mashramani. We spent two years building a RAISING THE BAR relationship right here before we actually got married some FOR MASHRAMANI 13 years ago,” said Clive proudly remarked.

Clive told the PepperClive went on to say that he feels that Mashramani is pot Magazine: “I honestly about our culture; it’s about celebrating our culture. “We try believe that we need to to blend our culture because as you see I am Afro-Guyanese have a little bit more unand my wife is Indo-Guyanese and so we both enjoy our- derstanding about what selves together as one – whether it is Mashramani, Phagwah some of the floats are all or any other cultural celebration. We also have kids who about. Some of the floats have to enjoy both worlds and so we make it an important have little or nothing to part of our socialising and we enjoy it too,” he said. explain what they are all He feels that doing things a child or spouse wants to about.” He, therefore, do, also send a strong message of love. I am a re-migrant recommends that an acafter 40 years in the United States and while out there, he companying literature said that he enjoyed the celebrations there too. He said that or brief, with concise now that he is home here in Guyana he makes it his duty to explanations are placed really have fun celebrating Mashramani. on a strategic part/s of the floats indicating what PREPARING THE MASHRAMANI MEALS they are all about. For Clive said that since about three o’clock on the morning the steel pan, the music of Mashramani he got up to begin to prepare all the Mash- is so very high… you are ramani meals with his son. talking about music, it is He said that they see even the meals that they prepare going over everybody’s as being a part of what it is to celebrate Mashramani and head – it ought to be lowso while preparing a large variety of meals, they also keep er.” in mind not just their family, but their friends and even While he commended passersby with whom they are willing to share their meals. the organisers for their There was evidence of this even as the Guyana Chronicle efforts in bringing the The Sampson family interviewed the family. people out on the road so He added that it is a day that they really enjoy; they set that Mashramani could be up a tent since the evening before – doing it as a family, a success, he felt that standards in some areas need to be securing the space that has become their own – after 15 lifted, especially in terms of the material presentation of years; they then return home to make all the preparations for some of the floats.

Mashramani Day so that they could come out as a family.

Vanessa Sampson also echoed the sentiments that as “We are usually out here all day, until way into the after- a family they really look forward to Mashramani. As the

owners of two businesses, she said that they strive to set the standards and raise the bar very high, emphasising to their staff that they should treat people how they like to be treated; having neutral respect for each other.

GUYANA IS THE NEW FRONTIER Clive said that since he returned home he has been telling his friends abroad that Guyana is the new frontier, “and honestly in my heart, I believe that we are the frontier, but we have to come together to make it a reality. I am really serious about this; we have to reach each other at a comprised level; we have to have that unity.”

LEAVING A LEGACY “The whole idea with this Mashramani is that it is a celebration we really enjoy, that we want to leave a legacy for our children. We have been bringing out our children, as babies in their pampers, as babies and we are still doing it.

“I want to teach them to appreciate other people; to appreciate other people’s culture; not to shun other people but to respect them; children who would learn to build and not break their country,” the Sampsons said. (mercilinburke2017@gmail.com)

Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

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Linden dominates Mash Competitions

By Naomi Marshall

THE talented town of Linden dominated the Junior Soca Monarch, Senior Soca Monarch, Senior Calypso Monarch, Mashramani Dance Competition and many other events which were held in honour of Guyana’s 48th Republic Anniversary.

During this season of colours, costumes and celebration, Lin-

Brandon Harding singing his hit “Alive” amid much celebration after being announced the 2018 Soca Monarch. (Adrian Narine photo)

making waves in the entertainment industry in the future.

“In the music industry, I see myself as a growing artiste making waves and facing all the challenges that come with it.

I’m determined to leave my mark as an entertainer and I will continue to work hard towards making my fans proud of me, even though I know they already proud. Diana Chapman, Third Place There is so much winner of the Calypso and Soca Monarch Competitions

Monarch earlier this month.

Copeland performed his winning song “Feel the Vibes” which captured the hearts of the audience and judges at Square Park Fun City, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara.

Copeland said he has been humbled by winning the competition and is grateful for the win.

“I’m humbled by it, the other competitors brought their ‘A’ game but I’m grateful for the win, we all Amelia’s Ward Primary Isaiah had fun and that’s Cameron performing “Ole Time what matters,” he Mash” in the 8-10 Dramatic Poetry expressed.

Competition (Adrian Narine Photo) Additionally, the Ministry of Education Children’s Mashramani Dance and Masquerade Competition concluded at the National Cultural Centre, and of course, Linden placed in some of the top positions in the different categories.

For their piece “Wishawow” which saw a medley of dancers decked out in princess costumes, One Mile Primary secured a

den has shown the real reason why the Mashramani festivities more to come so my started in the mining town. fans could look out Guyana’s first-ever Junior Soca Recently, Linden’s very own Brandon Harding rocked the for more amazing Monarch, Dexter Copeland stage at the Senior Soca Monarch Competition, copping the $1.5 music as I break million first-place prize that was up for grabs. barriers in the enterOn February 17, 2018 Harding performed his hit ‘Alive’ tainment industry,” rocking the stage, crowd and even some of his stage rivals with she said. his energetic performance.

Gaining the fourth position in the Another Lindener, Diana Chapman, copped third position in Senior Soca Monarch is yet another both the Senior Soca Monarch and Calypso Competition.

Lindener, Colwin Blair who performed Chapman describes herself as “a very humble individual his hit ‘Leave me alone’ touching the who has a great passion for not only music but the Arts in its party moods of his audience. entirety.”

“My experience that night was good “I’m big on family and love, it’s the reason I continue to and also wonderful knowing that I was push myself for greatness, my family is my biggest motivation the youngest singer in the competition,” along with all my fans who continuously show their support,” said the artiste. she told the Pepperpot.

The 21-year-old noted that his love Entering the competition on a last minute decision, Chapman for soca music and performing on stage took up the challenge in order to get the experience and because is what led to his entry into the compeof her love for music. tition.

She noted, “I’m very happy to have placed among the top This youngster also participated in performers, knowing I did this well at my first try at this title, the Linden Party Monarch in which he I’m proud of myself and I can only see myself getting better in got the second position. the future.”

Blair stated that he sees himself winning the Soca Monarch second place for Region 10.

Back in 2011, Chapman won the Junior Calypso Monarch Competition in the future and becoming a “big star.”

One Mile Primary School also placed third in the 8-10 masCompetition and in 2017 she became the Senior Calypso MonAnother winner hailing from the talented town of Linden is querade and in the 11-13 dance (group) category. arch.

Jason Copeland who became Guyana’s first-ever Junior Soca Also, the New Silver City Secondary bagged the 11 – 13 “Being a Junior Dance (hip hop) CateMonarch was an amazgory. ing feeling and I longed In the final categoto be the senior monarch ries of the day, the 14 –17 one day and that hapDramatic Poetry, Linden pened for 2017 and I Foundation Secondary’s was beyond proud to see Trevor Armstrong ruled the myself achieving goals category with “I Will Not that I set out to achieve,” Rest”. This was read as a she expressed. warning to Venezuela as he, Chapman said the the soldier character, spoke GTT Jingle and Song of his determination to deCompetition was a mafend his country’s border jor hit for her. “It was and sovereignty. the largest song comIn the National Sports petition in the country Commission, Mashramaand I placed in the top ni Pre-Cadet and Junior 10 when I was pregnant Table Tennis Champiin 2011 and went back onship 2018 Ebo Mc Neil in 2013 and got an even got the second position better place of third,” she in the Boys 9-years and explained. under and third in the Colwin Blair aka “Lil Colwin” performing during the Soca This talented young Boys 11-years and unMonarch Finals last Saturday (Photo by Adrian Narine) woman sees herself der categories.

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Living With Intention Motivational Tour commenced in my hometown Bartica WHEN I decided to do the Living with Intention Motivational Tour, I knew it would be in my hometown Bartica.

I would never trade the experience of visiting my two old schools. It was great seeing Cecilia Joseph English who is the headmistress of St John the Baptist Primary. She has

been an educator for close to 40 years. I invited my friend for over 35 years, Collette McKenzie, to accompany me to our old school. I may be a bit biased but I swear Bartica has the most beautiful kids in the country and I may even go further to say, people!

I interacted with the kids for an hour which was so inspiring. I asked some of them to introduce themselves and encouraged them to be confident and value the investment of their parents.

I shared some of my stories attending that school. I told them I sold plantain chips, sugar cake, fudge, etc. to assist my mom financially. I asked the question ‘Which one of you woke up this morning and made something to sell at school?’

But no one raised their hands.

I received so many tight hugs and during our interaction, I

Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

Beyond the Runway with Dr. Sonia Noel

... Inspiring lives through fashion learned that I taught some of their parents in school.

Our second stop was a visit to the Mayor’s office where I met Mr. Gifford Marshall and Town Clerk, Phebe Thomas.

They were super happy to see me and both received their autographed copy of Living With Intention. We always have meaningful discussions and the content of this conversation was filled with intention.

“This book is very timely for this community of Bartica and I encourage everyone to acquire a copy. We are focusing on a major development in Bartica and it is beyond the physical. The human resource is a significant factor in this and the youth population is the focus. Thank you for coming home first,” Mayor Gifford Marshall said.

I visited my school friend Emily Ramdass who owns a supermarket and who supported the book and pre-ordered books for her staff.

Bartica Secondary was next on the schedule. Teachers Carmel Smith and Deon Persaud enthusiastically welcomed us. Sophia Adams, who was one of my best friends in that school, joined me. We were laughing so much as we walked around the school reminiscing and talking about the late HM Robinson and the teachers.

During my presentation, I could tell they were captivated and their reviews confirmed that. I had a one on one with a few students after and they wanted to know if I can come every week to encourage them to make better choices.

A quote came to mind as I departed the schools in which I spent most of my teenage years: “It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men” Frederick Douglas.

We all owe it to society to contribute in any way we can.

The evening I had a book signing at Prophetic Anointed Ministries for persons who pre-ordered LIVING WITH INTENTION. It was great. Flora Isaacs whom I knew as a young girl living in Bartica but who migrated to the US decades ago was there. She would always express on social media how proud she is of me and she was elated to have her copy of Turn to page XXX ►►►

Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

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Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

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#SupportCreativity

By Subraj Singh

Lessons from a Mashramani Experienced in Childhood MY earliest memory of Mashramani is from when I was about seven years old.

My sister and I were being taken around the streets of Georgetown by our grandfather, who would point out the bright, colourful floats, and marvel along with us at the enthusiasm and energy of the dancers, generally serving as our guide as we walked through the densely, packed streets that pounded with stomping and music. I remember that early that day our grandfather had simply woken up and said something along the lines of, “Leh we go see the Mashramani.”

He was quite spontaneous like that. We went out. There was cotton candy. Our grandfather kept a steady supply of water ready for us whenever we got thirsty. He held our hands. He was quite responsible. However, at one point during the venture in the heart of the carnivalesque get-together that is Mashramani, I somehow lost him and my sister in the crowd. And yet, strangely, I did not panic. You see, I was surrounded by colour and beauty and art. There was music and there was merriment and laughter and joy.

Perhaps, the seven-year-old me, felt comforted or protected by that.

Perhaps at that moment, I didn’t believe that anything could go wrong, that anything bad could possibly happen in a place of euphoria that was so strong that it drowned out everything else.

While reflecting on that incident, I had initially thought that the first lesson from that day was that Mash makes people happy. However, my adult mind has broken that down even more and edited that interpretation to say that art, as experienced during Mashramani, is really what makes people happy. Is it the thing itself, the holiday, the observance of Republic Day that makes the Mashramani celebration everything that it is? I would counter this by saying that it is really the artistic elements that shape the holiday that actually deserve to be recognised as the factors that define Mash.

Mashramani is the colourful costumes made from hundreds of beads and feathers.

Mash is a set of artists and designers who stay up late into the night, drawing, cutting, pasting. Mash is calypso music written by witty, bawdy calypsonians. Mash is your “big auntie and all she chirren” who can dance like it is the last time they will ever get to dance. Mash is the food, prepared by generations of mothers before it makes its way to your plate. Mash is a thing with rhythm

and flow. Mash is made of a thousand literary devices. Mash is art.

REPUBLIC DAY? THAT’S JUST THE EXCUSE But, going back to me misplacing my family, the possibility exists that, perhaps, it was only childishness after all, that caused me not to feel anything but awe and complacency when I realised that I was very much alone in a crush of bodies made up entirely of strang-

ers. Perhaps the artistry within the celebrations had nothing to do with it, even though I do believe otherwise. Whatever the reason, I was quite calm as I made the decision to keep walking through the crowd, rather than waiting for my grandfather to find me.

I thought I saw him walking in front of me. The figure had on a white shirt similar to the one he was wearing, so I ran up and tugged at the person’s shirt. A beaming woman wearing a cutout of the map of Guyana on a headband turned to face me.

Another woman said something that I can no longer remember to the beaming woman and the beaming woman laughed. I had not managed to find my grandfather at that moment, but instead, I found something else that would become much, much more important. Yes, that’s right. I can now say that that thing I found was more important than family. What was it that I found? Well, it was: knowledge.

This second lesson came about when I realised that by following the woman with the Guyana map headband, I had been led

into a section of dancers I had not seen before. They were parading quite gaily and they wore white shirts with green writing on them. I realised with a slight shock – no doubt stemming from the early social conditioning that my PPP-supporting, African-fearing family members instilled in me – that I had made my way into what was probably the PNC’s Mash band, or at least a group of their supporters.

I say probably

flect on this experience, to look back on this moment of awakening and realisation, and see how far we have come, particularly in this modern time where the PNC-led APNU government won the last election because of a large number of votes from young “coolie” people. Despite that, we still do have a far way to go.

I think that like me, at that moment at that Mashramani, every Indian person and every African person in this country might have had a moment where he/ she realises the difference between race and political party. What was that moment like for others in my generation? Did they have a considerate parent and sibling who sat them down and explained the complexities of Guyanese politics?

Were they surprised in the streets the way I was? Was it in some jarring and shocking way that they realised this important aspect of Guyanese politics? How did it happen for you? How are our stories similar and how are they different?

ART AND POLITICS Art and politics – two important themes I encountered one Mashramani day many years ago.

When my grandfather found “An image from a previous year’s me just a few minutes later, Mashramani celebrations. Photo everything returned back to Credit: Delano Williams, Guyana normal. He was scared then, Chronicle” but whenever the subject of me being lost at Mashramani came up later, the family, in the way because it was a long time ago and I of typical Guyanese people, would always was really young, so I cannot be entirely laugh about that instance of almost-misforsure. However, there was “PNC” on the tune. It is only now that I realise how much shirts and that was when I realised that insight I actually gained that day by being these were PNC supporters. I don’t think I on my own, for just a few minutes. Being was afraid or stunned. I was just interested, symbolically and literally separated from my in the way we are as children, all fascinat- family was enough to allow me to see things ed with the forbidden, and I stood in the on my own, in my way, and after gaining street watching them parade and dance. The more knowledge, I managed to interpret moment of great knowledge, however, and what they truly meant much later. the moment that truly shocked the sevenAnd that raises the question: do other year-old me was when I realised that some people take away lessons or bits of wisdom of the people in the PNC band were (gasp!) from our Mashramani celebrations? Do they “coolie” people. learn anything from it anymore? Do they see They were dancing and having fun, all that it is composed of, or do they only see proudly flaunting their dedication to the the glitter and gloss? Do they see the racist PNC. That was the moment when I realised politics bubbling underneath the flowers and that all Indian people do not support the PPP feathers? Do they see the underpaid artists and that meant that all African people do struggling under the weight of their cosnot support the PNC either. As a child who tumes? What do they see? What do you see? was constantly told about the importance of If they only see a party; an opportunity supporting the “Indian party” by adults who to get drunk and have fun, then that spells probably meant well, it had never occurred doom for Mash and the entire nation. to me that this kind of thing, this kind of There are lessons and pieces of wisdom cross-voting, was possible. everywhere. All you have to do is look and It is indeed ironic and beautiful to re- you will find them.

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Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

Love and Mental Health LAST week was Valentine’s Day and it made me think about the health benefits of loveboth mentally and physically.

I would like to get this out of the way now – love causes many hardships. No one (especially not me) disputes that. Love can make us feel very sad, angry, confused and so many other undesired emotions. Love can result in agony, depression and even suicide. We know this- it elicits the most powerful emotions.

However, sometimes we tend to overlook or forget the other side – the extremely happy one. The feeling that distinguishes from the everyday contentment. The side that has both mental and physical benefits. This is what I would like to focus on today.

Like anything else, there are many definitions of love. We tend to choose which definition (of a word) relates to us more. “When the happiness, security, and well-being of another person is as real or more to you than your own, you love that person”- Harry Sullivan’s definition is my understanding of love. Your definition might be different and therefore your actions would be different to my own.

Love manifests itself in different ways, all of which are necessary and useful. A lot of what we do is centred around love- and we don’t even realise it. We celebrate birthdays and promotions because we love the individual. We are patient because we are willing to do whatever it takes, however long it takes for the ones we love. Helping to ease burdens is out of love.

Forgiveness, patience and even confrontation are done purely out of love.

One thing I believe I learned too late in life is the process of love. Love isn’t taught, it’s transmitted. We love the way we were loved; we express love the way it was expressed to us. This then brings out the question- Is there an unhealthy way of loving someone? I believe there are as many ways of loving as there are people and yes, some of them can be unhealthy.

However, I am choosing to focus on the positive today. When that certain way of love is transmitted to us, we can take that wherever we like. We are not bound to exert the same love we received- we are simply more likely to do it.

One of my favourite quotes is “love is a drug and everyone is a junkie”. Why? Because love may not be a drug but it certainly feels like one. It provides a high unlike any drug you have experienced. It elicits a serious craving and then withdrawal pattern when not being in the presence of the one you love. You isolate yourselves from the world. It’s addictive which is why we are lucky that it actually provides physical and mental health benefits.

Being in love causes physical symptoms on our bodies. We experience our heart racing, butterflies in the stomach, anxiety, nervousness etc. But you feel these symptoms in the best of ways. Love helps to cope with and reduce stress. It gives us extra support, someone to confide in and offer advice. People generally tend to live healthier lifestyles while in relationships.

When people care about you, they care about your health and well-being. Therefore, they are likely to encourage you to drink less alcohol, stop smoking, and eat healthier. Love causes over-all better hygiene. Many people don’t like to admit this but I know many people who go to sleep without showering or brushing their teeth. However, if their partner is there, you better believe they do all of that and more- even just for show.

Studies show that that extra support that only a partner can give results in higher success rates of treatment for illnesses such as cancer and addiction. Sometimes we don’t have the strength to do things for ourselves. Our feelings of self-confidence, self-worth and motivation are low. So we do things for those we love instead. A substance dependent person is much more likely to come off of drugs if they have a loving partner. That kind of support is unparalleled Overall, many studies prove that people in loving, long-term relationships have longer average life spans than those that are not.

Mentally, love increases our self-confidence and feelings of self-worth. We are less self-conscious as we have someone who loves us for us. Our moods automatically improve when they are around. We are more selfless as this love encourages us to sometimes cater to this individual more than we cater to ourselves. Our minds are more at ease because we know we have that extra, unwavering support when needed. Love encourages us to be more open minded. We open up to new things that our partners enjoy or care about. This can range from anything to trying a new television show to experiencing an entirely different culture. Keep in mind that being open-minded naturally results in higher coping skills as well as levels of resilience. Love allows for a more social life- you meet many new people when in a relationship. this improves our communication and overall people skills which directly affects our productivity and efficiency levels.

Overall, it is safe to say that love is also capable of lowering depression and the possibility of suicidal thoughts.

If you do not have love in your life right now, that is okay too. Do not underestimate the power of familial love, friendship and even self-love. If you have lost love, do not give up hope.

This gives you a chance to start a whole new chapter and experience all the above benefits in a completely different way.

Next week, I’m going to talk about relationships and ways to identify if they are healthy or unhealthy.

Thanking you for reading. Please keep sending any topics you’d like to talk about to caitlinvieira@gmail.com Or come in to see me at: Georgetown Public Hospital: Psychiatric Department: Monday- Friday – 08:00hrs – 12:00hrs Suicide Prevention Helpline numbers: 223-0001, 223-0009, 623-4444, 600-7896 Say Yes to Life and No to Drugs! Always

Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

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Guyana's image in Southern Africa expanding

By Francis Quamina Farrier WITH Guyana celebrating its 48th anniversary of Republican status, I decided to investigate the current image of our beautiful country within Southern Africa that came about due to the recent resignation of the President of South Africa, Jacob Zuma, at the behest of his own political party, the ANC. President Zuma was accused of widespread corruption, and his own political party decided to instruct him to resign, which he did. Interesting, isn’t that?

As would be recalled, I wrote an article in the Chronicle Pepperpot of August 27, 2017, which had the Headline, “The New Guyana/ South Africa Connection”. In that article, Farrier, at right, with an Indian national and a South African national (at centre with make-up) during a Popular Theatre Exchange in Sydney Australia

I reported the accreditation of Dr Kenrick Hunte, as Guyana’s first Resident Ambassador to the Republic of South Africa. Over the past six months since Dr Hunte has been

Guyana’s Ambassador to South Africa, presents his Letters of Credence to the President of neighbouring Namibia, as this country’s non-resident ambassador, on February 22, 2018

in Pretoria, the capital of South Africa, he has been making the image of Guyana better known in the former ‘Land of Apartheid’.

One example is the previous view by South Africans that the international Guyanese Superstar, Eddy Grant, was Jamaican.

That was something which Ambassador Hunte corrected. It must be recalled that Eddy Grant composed that powerful anti-apartheid rallying song, “Gimme Hope Jo’anna.” It may seem like a simple issue, but South Africa is very serious about culture and their cultural workers. Back in the 1970s, the internationally famous South African songbird, Miriam Makeba, also composed anti-apartheid songs such as “Mother Africa”. At one time, the beautiful and charming Miriam Makeba also seemed to have been a candidate for the office of Guyana’s First Lady. Do take note of that Miriam Makeba song, “Tell Me, Mr Man, What you doing, Mr Man”. The lyrics of that Makeba song were (allegedly) specifically intended for Guyana’s President Forbes Burnham, who was a bachelor at the time. Indeed, there Turn to page XXX ►►►

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seemed to be a romantic connection between Guyana and South Africa.

Something which is of importance is the role which Guyana has played in the Liberation Struggle by Freedom Fighters in South Africa and neighbouring countries such as Angola, Mozambique and Namibia, during the 1960s, the 1970s and the 1980s.

Guyana made financial contributions as well as tactical support to the Freedom Fighters, in the struggle to dismantle the brutal system of suppression by Europeans over the Na-

tive African Peoples in Africa. Guyana also imposed a ban on any dealings with white minority South African government.

During the decades of Apartheid in South Africa, the suppression of the Indigenous Africans by the Whites was brutal. The country’s indigenous citizens were made to carry ID cards at all times, or risk being thrown into prison. On March 21, 1960, 69 of a large group of demonstrating students, were shot dead by Police; an incident known as the Sharpeville Massacre. As such, Guyana severed all relations with the white minority South African Government. There were

Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

no political, economic, cultural or sporting activities with that country by Guyana until Apartheid was totally and permanently dismantled and democracy restored.

With the many years of fighting for their freedom from colonial rule and the brutal oppressive system of Apartheid, countries in Southern Africa finally regained their independence from colonial rule. Since then, countries in Southern Africa, such as Angola, Botswana, Mozambique and Namibia, have all adhered to the democratic system, with general elections being held as stipulated.

There has been no coup d’etat in those countries.

Following a recent general election in Angola in September 2017, the 74-year-old President, Jose Eduardo dos Santos, who was in office for over 30 years, stepped aside and handed over the presidency to his selected 63-year-old successor, Joao Lourenco, who is now the president of that oil-rich African

nation. Of special note for Guyana, is that with all its oil wealth, a high percentage of Angola’s 13 million population, still live in poverty, something which the new president has vowed to address.

Guyana’s Ambassador to South Africa, Dr. Kenrick Hunte, was in Angola this past week, where on February 22, 2018, he presented his Letters of Credentials as this country’s Non-Resident Ambassador to Angola. Dr. Hunte will, later this year, be accredited to a number of other southern and eastern African nations, including Kenya and Zimbabwe. Meanwhile, the Guyana Embassy in Pretoria, is a home away from home, for Guyanese resident in South Africa, as well as those visiting.

Ambassador Dr. Kenrick Hunte also continues to meet with a wide range of businessmen in South Africa, especially those who are expressing an interest in investing in Guyana.

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the people of Guyana.

I must thank some persons for assisting to make this trip possible: Integrated Security Services, Rockville Hotel, Blinds R US and Collin Joseph for documenting my trip.

The tour may lead me in your area next.

I trust you all enjoyed your Republic celebration.

If you would like the tour to come to your area send an email to livingwithintention11@ gmail.com.

Check out the Beyond the Runway’d FB page as we continue to enjoy this journey called life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.

the book.

The Mayor had invited me to be a part of the programme for the 10th anniversary of the Bartica Massacre. I got emotional seeing the lone survivor, Mr White, in a wheelchair. He is someone I knew for years.

He was so full of life before this unfortunate incident happened. We will continue to stand strong and united as Barticians. We will also be vigilant to prevent such atrocities in the future. May we say the words of our motto and mean it. We pray God continue to bless

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English THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

Worldly wealth he cared not for, desiring only to make both ends meet.

THOMAS FULLER (1608-1661) from The History of the Worthies of England (1662), Worthies of Cumberland STUDY SUCCESS Dear Student, You need to operate a systematic examination revision for about four weeks before you are examined. Arm yourself with past examination papers (with model answers if they are available). Work through the papers and analyse both questions and answers. Look out for frequently occurring topics. Note phrasing of questions and any special requirements, such as explain, summarise, and so on. Failure to follow examination instructions will make you lose marks. Be wise.

Love you.

GOOD WRITING Communicating for results NOTE: Language has a purpose which is to communicate. Words which get ideas across clearly and forcefully are always preferable.

A. High-Sounding Words and Phrases High-sounding words and phrases cloud the meaning of your writing and speaking.

Look at this example: “Consumers purchase when they possess sufficient funds” means, in everyday language, “People buy when they have enough money.”

Rewrite the following example of gobble so that it is easy to understand.

The values of equities have constantly eroded over the recent past. Nevertheless, the long-term economic prospects appear positive. We therefore suggest that long-term investors retain their positions in sound equities. Those who have additional funds to commit and those

who have refrained from a commitment should buy on weakness. These investors should search out sound equities that combine secure current yield with the likelihood of future price appreciation.

B. Unpleasant, Cold Words Change the following negative statements into positive statements. What you need to do is use words with less irritation to your readers. Your answers may vary slightly from that of your study partners’ answers.

1. Do not forget the community policing meeting at the end of the month.

2. Don’t fail to ship this order by air freight.

3. You forgot to provide a delivery date.

4. Do not lower your sugar cakes’ quality.

5. Don’t anger customers by being late at your stall.

6. We cannot act on your request for a bigger stall at this time.

7. We will not forget your special request.

8. Never forget a school child’s preferences.

C. Overused, Worn-Out Words Overused, worn-out words are not entirely taboo. They are essential for many occasions, but they are abused by overuse. You can do better with practice and an improved vocabulary.

In the examples below, substitute a more precise adjective for the overworked little to show that specific words always communicate more readily than general words.

1. a little town 6. a little portion 2. a little car 7. a little one 3. a little kitten 8. a little baby 4. a little matter 9. a little issue 5. a little build 10. a little wire D. Give at least one synonym for each of the following bold-type words. Consult a dictionary or the internet if you need help to find a good word to substitute. Your study partners’ answers may vary from yours.

1. The red thermometer takes very exact measurements.

2. The Education Department commemorates the anniversary of its founding each year.

3. Every parent must defend his or her child’s school dress.

4. A vender must always keep a positive attitude.

5. Bacchus offered a new slant on our reading club problem.

6. Speed is to be avoided on some roads.

7. We must all work together to shape a new membership campaign.

8. Is there really a choice?

9. The rice farmers’ decision to cut prices was brave.

READING Main Idea: The main idea is the focal idea of a piece of writing.

Read this favourite passage. Then, answer the question.

If the painter wishes to see enchanting beauties, he has the power to produce them. If he wishes to see monstrosities, he has the power to create them. If he wishes to produce towns or deserts, he can… Indeed, whatever exists in the universe, or in the imagination, the painter has first in his mind and then in his hands. – Leonardo Da Vinci This quotation is from a painter who could turn what he saw in his mind into what the world saw on canvas. Those of us, who look at what we have painted and know how different it is from what we imagine, feel differently about the creative act. Like children who draw stick figures when they are thinking of real people, what is painted is so much less than what we think. Rather than feel Da Vinci’s power, we often feel powerless.

1. What is the main idea of the quotation?

A. Painters can make beauty.

B. Painters can make monstrosities, but painters should focus on beauty.

C. A painter can represent what can be seen or imagined.

D. Painters have imagination.

2. Which is the most accurate statement?

A. The texts have similar ideas. B. The two texts contrast.

C. The texts show cause-effect.

D. The two texts show a sequence.

3. What is the main idea of the two texts?

A. Artists feel powerful or powerless.

B. No artist can equal Da Vinci.

C. For good painters, painting is creating.

D. All painters feel powerful through art.

4. The first sentence in the second paragraph A. continues the first paragraph. B. is a definition of the painter.

C. is a transition between two ideas.

D. is a contrast from the quotation.

Chronicle Pepperpot February 25, 2018

Barbecued Chicken Ingredients 1 chicken, 2-3 lb 1/4 pt vinegar 1/2 pt water 3/4 pt ketchup 1/4 pt lemon juice 1/2 tsp allspice 4 tbsp piquante sauce 1-2 tsp chopped wiri-wiri pepper 4 oz margarine 1 onion, chopped 4 tbsp brown sugar

1 tsp black or white pepper 1 tsp chopped garlic 2 tbsp vinegar

Method 1 Wash and trim away extra fat from chicken.

2 Wipe over with the 1/4 pt vinegar and the water.

3 Mix all other ingredients in a pan.

4 Heat to boiling point, then reduce to a simmer for 10 minutes.

5 Remove from heat and set aside.

6 Cook chicken over charcoal or in an oven at 400 degrees for about 1 hour.

7 About 20 minutes before meat is done, baste meat with sauce, turning the meat to baste each side.

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8 Continue cooking as necessary at a low heat, or 350 degrees. Turn the meat regularly to keep it from burning.

Serves 8 Note: Spare ribs may be done in the same way.

Entertainment

Mama June Says Jennifer Lawrence Is a "Hell No" to Getting Proud Middle School More Plastic Surgery Dropout After undergoing a physical transformation that saw her lose about 300 pounds, Mama June is still adamant that she will not have more plastic surgery.

The 38-year-old reality star and mother of four, including Alana "Honey Boo-Boo" Thompson, had undergone several cosmetic procedures as part of her full-body makeover and weight loss journey two years ago. Her transformation was chronicled on her WE tv reality show From Not to Hot, which is now in its second season.

"Hell no," Mama June, whose real name is June Shannon, told In Touch magazine in comments posted on Thursday, when asked if she would have more plastic surgery. "I did what I wanted to do and that's it!"

Mama June weighed 460 pounds at her heaviest and kick-started her weight loss with gastric sleeve surgery in 2015. She also changed her diet and worked out with a trainer. She later said on The Domenick Nati Show that had undergone a tummy tuck and a breast lift and had excess skin removed

from her arms and her neck. She also said then that she did not plan on having more plastic surgery.

“People think that I’m going to gain the weight back. But hello, I’ve almost been at this [weight] for a year and a half and I’m not gaining!” Mama June told In Touch.

“My current weight is like 165 to 170. I just try to watch what I eat and exercise when I can. I don’t ever want to go back.”

Jennifer Lawrence doesn't regret dropping out of middle school to pursue her acting career.

The 27-year-old star opened up about leaving school at the age of 14 to 60 Minutes.

"I dropped out of middle school. I don't technically have a GED or a diploma. I am self-educated," she said in a sneak peek of her interview with Bill Whitaker.

When asked she if she regretted the decision, Lawrence responded, "No. I really don't. I wanted to forge my own path. I found what I wanted to do, and I didn't want anything getting in the way of it. Even friends, for many

years, were not as important to me as my career. I mean, from the age of 14."

School wasn’t easy for Lawrence, and she knew acting was her true calling.

“I struggled through school. I never felt very smart,” the Red Sparrow star said. “And when I’m reading the script and I feel like I know exactly what it would look like if somebody felt that way, that was the whole part of my brain that I didn’t even know existed—something that I could be confident in and I didn’t want to let it go.”

Still, she admits her parents weren’t exactly thrilled with her decision to drop out.

“It was just an overwhelming feeling of ‘I get this. This is what I was meant to do,’” she said.

“And to get people to try to understand that, when you’re 14 years old wanting to drop out of school and do this, and your parents are just like ‘You’re

out of your mind.’”

Lawrence’s determination paid off. The actress has starred in a number of popular films, including the X-Men and Hunger Games movies. She also received Academy Award nominations for her roles in Joy, American Hustle and Winter’s Bone and took home the Oscar for her performance in Silver Linings Playbook.

However, she’s also experienced the dangers of fame, including having her privacy violated. In 2014, a hacker released nude photos of her online. After the experience, Lawrence said she was reluctant to take on the lead role in Red Sparrow because it required nudity.

“I realized that there was a difference between consent and not,” she said, “and I showed up for the first day and I did it and I felt empowered. I feel like something that was taken from me I got back and am using in my art.”